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Dr. Daniel Barba, MD

Dr. Daniel Barba, MD

Orthopedic Spine Surgery*
15+ years of experience

Dr. Daniel Barba, MD is an orthopedic spine surgeon in Escondido, CA and has over 15 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine in 2007. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Palomar Medical Center Downtown Escondido and Palomar Medical Center Escondido. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

4.8 Star Rating
Based on 186 reviews 4.8 Star Rating (186 reviews)

Locations

Arch Health Medical Group

Orthopedics1955 Citracado Pkwy Escondido, CA 92029
1
New Patient?
(442) 274-0566

At a Glance

  • Area of ExpertiseDr. Barba specializes in the area of Orthopedic Surgery. See board certifications
  • Explains Conditions WellPatients said this doctor explains conditions well. See reviews
  • Offers TelehealthThis doctor offers telehealth appointments. Call the office to schedule an appointment.
  • Practices at Top HospitalPatient Safety Excellence Award™ See hospitals

More Spine Surgeons at Palomar Health

Experience Check

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Dr. Barba's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Barba

4.8
186 ratings, 149 with a written review
5 star
93%
93%
4 star
3%
3%
3 star
1%
1%
2 star
0%
0%
1 star
3%
3%

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Back surgery
I was to the point where I was barely able to walk 50 feet. I had a bulging disc in my back the pinched my sciatic nerves, the pain was horrible and went down both legs. I was scared to do any kind of surgery, I have heard a lot of horror stories. I elected to do the fusion in my back. I felt relieved immediately after surgery. I now have walked up to 5 miles in a day. I feel great and I am so glad that I did the surgery, I would do it again in a heartbeat. Dr Barba did an excellent job. Thank you for my Life changing surgery.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 17, 2025
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Lower Back Surgery
From my very first appointment, Dr. Barba was professional. respectful and clearly knowledgeable about his profession. He listened to my concerns and answered my questions so that I could understand what was happening to my back. He clearly explained my options. I felt totally comfortable and was certain I was in good hands.Prior to my surgery, I found it difficult to stand still or to walk more than a few blocks pain free. Dr. Barba gave me back my mobility. Thank you, Dr. Bsrba!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 13, 2025
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I have been trying for 3 months to get Doctor Barba to fill out a simple 4 question form for my employer and they're unwilling to do so. Every time I call dozens of times all I get is a run around that I cannot speak to anyone they'll give them a message blah blah blah. So if you want to responsive physician he is not it.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Long wait times
Helpful
Eder – Apr 10, 2025
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Extremely Happy
The staff and Dr. Barba were always professional and helpful. Everything went according to plan, both before and after the surgery.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 02, 2025
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Dr Barba
As a surgeon Dr Barba is very competent. Communication is to be desired through my whole experience. When I saw him he told me to reach out with questions. Yet I left messages three times and asked through the portal for a work letter on my return to work. No response. My primary care physician ended up writing the letter.
What went well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 28, 2025
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Lumbar Spinal Fusion (L4 - L5)
I am an 82-year-old active man. I started to have debilitating pain in my lower back that prevented my wife & I from traveling. I was referred to Dr. Barba by my GP. Dr Barba ran a series of tests and discovered a cyst located between the L4 & L5 vertebrae. He performed the surgery, removing the cyst and fusing the vertebrae. I was only hospitalized overnight. The result of the operation was magical! All my pain was gone, I could walk my 2.5 miles again without pain.Dr. Barba was very thorough listening to all of my symptoms, explaining what he thought was needed and the risks involved. I would highly recommend Dr Barba to anyone with spinal issues.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Kenneth Jones – Mar 08, 2025
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Pain Resolved!
It’s been 14 months since I had my lumbar double fusion performed by Dr. Daniel Barba and his excellent surgical team at Palomar Health. I have been pain free since and my quality of life has been restored! Prior to surgery, I suffered severe lower back pain and sciatica for two years and have tried almost every non-surgical treatment. I learned about Dr. Barba from a relative’s testimony raving how he was tremendously relieved from his back pain. Dr. Barba has a calm and professional demeanor, and he was always attentive to my questions and concerns. He explained my options clearly and advised that this lumbar fusion procedure was the permanent solution for me. I thank God for Dr. Barba, and I couldn’t be more delighted with the entire surgery process, recovery and the best results. I have the utmost respect and confidence in Dr. Barba.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Gladys C. – Mar 07, 2025
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Highly recommend!!!
January, 2024 at age of 79 I underwent Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Surgery with Posterior Fusion Instrumentation L4, L5, L5S1. Dr. Barba with Palomar Medical Group performed the surgery. Surgery was a complete success without any complications.January, 2025 was one year since my spine surgery. I am forever grateful for Dr. Barba and his excellent care! Anyone having spine issues, I highly recommend Dr. Barba. Excellent spine surgeon
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Cecilia – Feb 26, 2025
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Great work
He did great work for me and my pain is gone. Follow up has been terrific. Now time will heal me.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Feb 26, 2025
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Dr. Barba was friendly and made me feel comfortable, while presenting several options to surgery. He came highly recommended, especially by other doctors I was acquainted with. I would not hesitate to use him again if I need surgery in the future.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Feb 15, 2025
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Patient
Good conversations regarding surgery pre and post!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jan 29, 2025
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Great Surgery
Throughout the entire process, from first consult through the back surgery to final appointment, Dr. Barba was knowledgeable, personable, and informative. I was never in doubt about what was going to happen and the expected outcome. Recovery was very quick and I have ben pain free since the surgery.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Jan 25, 2025
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Dr Barba - L4-L5 Disc Replacement Surgery
Dr Barba performed L4-L5 disc replacement surgery and fusion 1 year ago. This visit was my one year follow-up. Before the surgery I could barely walk without pain killers due to pinched nerves that sent severe pains down my right leg. Since the surgery I have been pain free. On every visit Dr Barba listened and answered every question clearly and in laymen terms. He used a plastic model of the vertebrae so you could visualize the procedure. He never seemed rushed to get on to the next patient and encouraged asking questions and was always upbeat. He explained the surgery and what to expect after the surgery for recovery. By following his instructions, the outcome was a complete success. Before the operation I heard many horror stories about back surgery and how it made things worse. This obviously was not my experience and would highly recommend it if you are diagnosed with the same type of issue.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jerry Smith – Jan 08, 2025
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Excellent surgeon!
Dr. Barba was completely thorough with his explanations and his care. I ended up having surgery and Dr. Barba helped me feel at ease before and after the surgery. I would highly recommend him for your back or spinal care.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jan 08, 2025
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Great!
Dr Barba asks the right questions and gives appropriate responses when asked.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jan 05, 2025
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I chose Dr Barba for spine surgery after meeting several of his patients in PT. All raved about his expert skills and compassion. They were right. I put this surgery off for 4 years, until I couldn't stand the pain. Now I wish I hadn't. 5 weeks post-op and I'm pain free. Supporting staff,(front ofc, nurses, and surgery scheduler)made the process easy. A lot of info was provided on-line, in writing and during appointments.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jan 03, 2025
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Highly recommend
Very friendly and listened carefully to my concerns. Surgery on my back went great, no issues.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Vicki A. – Jan 03, 2025
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Lumbar Surgery
Preop appointments were very friendly and informative. Hospital staff from when I arrived to when I went home were very friendly and Positive making me feel at ease about the surgery.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Dec 27, 2024
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A Doctor to trust sharing alternatives AND surgery
Dr Barba was very clear in presenting the possible alternatives to deal with my intense pain (6-10) and expected outcomes and expected time for additional surgeries to be needed. He also shared a more permanent surgery and the long term recovery, about 1 year, with the needed hard work on my part as well as the expected outcome for decades after.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Spinal Surgery to solve back and leg pain? – Oct 29, 2024
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Dr. Barba is exceptional!
I cannot say enough great things about Dr. Barba and the outstanding care I received. From the first consultation to post-surgery follow-ups, he was nothing short of amazing. I was dealing with debilitating back pain, and he took the time to thoroughly explain my condition, the surgical procedure, and what to expect during recovery. His professionalism, compassion, and expertise immediately put me at ease.The surgery was a complete success, and I’m already feeling a significant improvement in my mobility and pain level. Dr. Barba and his team truly went above and beyond to guarantee that I was comfortable and informed every step of the way. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of back surgery. He gave me my quality of life back, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Brett D – Oct 26, 2024
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About Me

biography

Dr. Daniel Barba grew up in Detroit area of Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI in 2007. After completing his internship and residency at the University of Buffalo, NY in 2012 Dr. Barba...read more
  • Orthopedic Spine Surgery

  • Orthopedic Surgery

  • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Scripps Clinic Center For Spinal Disorders

    Fellowship Hospital
  • University Of Buffalo

    Residency Hospital
  • Michigan State University College Of Human Medicine

    Medical School, 2007
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery®
Orthopedic Surgery
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.

Affiliated Hospitals

  • Palomar Medical Center Downtown Escondido

    555 E Valley Pkwy
    Escondido, CA 92025
    Recipient of 10
    hospital awards

    Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2025, 2024, 2023)

    Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

    View all awards
  • Palomar Medical Center Escondido

    2185 Citracado Pkwy
    Escondido, CA 92029
    Recipient of 14
    hospital awards

    Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2025, 2024, 2023)

    Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

    America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Surgical Excellence Award™ (2023)

    Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    85%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    1% higher than the national average

    75%
    Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

    1% lower than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • Palomar Medical Center Poway

    15615 Pomerado Rd
    Poway, CA 92064
    Recipient of 2
    hospital awards

    Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2025, 2024)

    Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    83%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    1% lower than the national average

    72%
    Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

    4% lower than the national average

    View all patient feedback
Learn more about how Healthgrades measures Hospital Quality